Snacking when you’re watching your shape can be tricky
The term snack often means a food which is eaten between meals. Snacking can mean different things to different people, from a piece of fruit to a cereal bar to a sandwich. Special K asked the nation about their snacking habits…
How much thought do you give to the type of foods you snack on between meals?
- 67% said ‘a little’ – they assess what’s available and then decide if they want to eat it.
- 23% said they just eat what’s available regardless of what it is!
- Under 25’s have the least regard for what they snack on – 27% will have whatever’s going.
- 15% of office workers do this too (highest percentage of all workers).
What do you find yourself snacking on most often?
- Top answer was chocolate bars – 34%.
- Top answer for men was choc (36%), women it’s choc and fruit (both 32%).
- Under 25’s eat the most choc (47%). Over 55’s eat the most fruit (39%).
- Glaswegians snack the most on choc (44%). People from Norwich eat the most fruit (40%).
Do you ever feel guilty after eating a between-meal snack?
- Half of Brits admit to feeling guilt after eating a between meal snack.
- Women have guiltier consciences than men - 61% Vs 38%.
- Those who are married feel guiltier about snacking (52%) than singletons (44%).
- Geordies are the most likely people in the UK to feel guilt as a result of between-meal snacking (59%).
What makes you eat between meals?
56% of people said boredom! (62% of females snack due to boredom as opposed to only 50% of men). League table of reasons to eat between meals:
- Hunger (71%)
- Boredom (56%)
- Temptation (49%)
- Force of habit (26%)
- Lack of concentration (14%)
Choosing your snacks sensibly
Choosing your snacks sensibly can have many positive benefits for when you’re watching your shape. It’s important your snacks count towards your dietary recommendation of good things like vitamins, minerals and fibre.
Sensible snacking can:
- Provide some of the essential nutrients you need each day.
- Provide nutrients for people who can't eat much at meals.
- Give you energy as you go through a busy day, especially when it's a long time between meals.
- Prevent overeating at mealtimes due to hunger pangs.
- Provide you with a great opportunity to meet your recommended 5 A DAY portions of fruit & veg.
